Making Jazz French by Jeffrey H. Jackson

MAKING JAZZ FRENCH, an indepth look at music and modern life in interwar Paris, is an enjoyable approach to jazz on the European scene. Jeffrey H. Jackson is to be congratulated on his fine book, and writing skills.

This book deals with the years between World War One and World War Two, a time when F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jospehine Baker, and Ernest Hemingway made Paris their favorite haunt and adventure locale. Jazz developing in the USA was soon in Paris, France.

There was jazz everywhere in Paris, in cabarets, music halls, and dance clubs. Jeffrey H. Jackson captures the feel of the times with verve and accuracy, and he also examines the controversial aspects of performance jazz during the 1920s and 1930s. The book has some photos which say a lot about how the French fell in love with jazz!

What is of major importance about this book is that it reveals how jazz as an original art form created in the USA became incorporated into the French musical traditions, and how it became French in expression. This book will settle some incorrect views and establish facts as to the effect and affect American Jazz had on the music of France and French musicians.

Jeffrey H. Jackson has given the reading audience a topnotch reading experience, one that is both entertaining and informative. There are 8 chapters, an Epilogue, and a fascinating Appendix titled "Histories of Jazz in Interwar France," plus a nice notes section, selected bibliography, and index.

Of special note are the chapters "The Spread of Jazz" and "Making Jazz French: Parisian Musicians and Jazz Fans." Highly recommended reading for those interested in American Jazz and its influence in France.For an exciting look at jazz in France during the interwar years, MAKING JAZZ FRENCH will entertain with its enjoyable approach! A fine book!